The worship of God is both a privilege and a duty of men. Christians would do well to consider how they worship. Consider the example that Psalm 136 sets out for us. A chorus of praise is given to God for His creative power and transcendent character and His providence in redemptive history.
1 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
2 Give thanks to the God of gods,
for his steadfast love endures forever. …5 to him who by understanding made the heavens,
for his steadfast love endures forever; …16 to him who led his people through the wilderness,
for his steadfast love endures forever; …23 It is he who remembered us in our low estate,
for his steadfast love endures forever; ….25 he who gives food to all flesh,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
26 Give thanks to the God of heaven,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
Many astute Christians warn against vain repetition in worship. In some circles, it is common place to sing a chorus over and over and over again. I’m not a fan of “vain” repetition. This said, I believe some repetition is appropriate and useful. I am a forgetful sinner and need to be reminded of God’s goodness. But God, His steadfast love endures forever!
Presbyterians need a dose of passioned orthodoxy. Worship that is theologically informed should engage our whole being in “religious affections.” We are to avoid the shallowness of pure emotionalism. (Ever hear praise music that sounds more like a secular love song?) Still, avoiding emotionalism doesn’t mean being void of emotions. Presbyterians do not need to hide their emotions. We should praise God for who He is and what He has done. Sing loudly and be glad!
